People ask me if my “I won’t worry my life away” tattoo is just a representation of my Jason Mraz fandom and affinity for his song. Sure, that’s one part of it, but the real reason is my grandmother. Mraz wrote this song for his friend who had battled cancer, said that now famous line, and beat the disease. My grandmother was the same way. Over 10 years ago, she was diagnosed with late-stage cancer and the doctors never gave her a shot. She was staring death, cancer, and science right in the face, and gave them all a big middle finger and told them all to fuck off (in the classiest way possible). She never worried her life away, lived on her own terms, beat the disease, and kept living on her terms years after. Sadly, today was the last day she got to do that. I am completely crushed, but man, she had a hell of a run, and took no prisoners. She lived, laughed, and loved with all of her heart. She was the bravest woman I know, and I can only hope to have a fraction of her strength and courage in my life. So much so, that I need the phrase tattooed on my forearm so I can see it whenever I am feeling even slightly stressed out! I was there only a few weeks ago and I’m glad to have hung out, and shared food and stories with her. Most of all, I’m glad to have been able to tell her that this tattoo was inspired and dedicated to her. While the pain I feel right now for her loss is pretty indescribable, I am happy that she had a great life with a great family and I have her on my arm until it’s my turn to go. I’m not a religious man, but if you kind folks could spare a prayer, a thought, or some good vibrations for her and family, it would be truly appreciated. PS, while people were supportive when I got my tattoo and grew out my beard, I know there were slight eye rolls that came along with it. My grandma was not only supportive, she thought they were cool. I love you, Mama. I miss you already.
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